I recall last season on ground outs, they would all be close. Now he is a step or two off the bag when thrown out.
He is only 21, I wouldn't think gaining a few pounds would make him slower at his age. He does seem slower than last season.
I think he needs to change his eating habits. I think the wear and tear of the season, you need to eat right to keep your body in peak shape. He is only 21 though, his body should be able to receover quickly from fatigue, bad eating habits, staying out late or boozing it up. It's hard to reason why he would be slower @ 21 lol. He may be hindered by an injury.